FESPA accelerates print census with biannual surveys focusing on sustainability and AI
FESPA, the global federation for the speciality print sector, is set to relaunch its Print Census in 2025 with a renewed focus on frequency and relevance. This refreshed initiative, in partnership with Keypoint Intelligence, aims to capture the dynamic landscape of the print and signage industry more effectively. By conducting surveys biannually and concentrating on three specific themes with each one, FESPA intends to provide its members with actionable insights to navigate the marketplace successfully.
This strategic shift from a three-year interval to semi-annual surveys signifies FESPA's commitment to staying attuned to industry trends and customer demands. Graeme Richardson-Locke, Head of Associations & Technical Lead at FESPA, emphasizes the necessity of these insights for adapting to an ever-evolving sector. “The print sector is always developing, and our community needs up-to-date insights to stay ahead,” he remarked. This approach will not only facilitate regular benchmarking but also enhance dialogue among businesses, allowing them to share experiences and identify emerging opportunities.
Key enhancements to the Print Census include a more user-friendly format, enabling participants to complete the survey in just ten minutes, and the availability of multilingual reports to encourage global participation. Such steps are crucial as the industry faces a myriad of challenges and opportunities. The upcoming surveys will focus on sustainability, artificial intelligence (AI), and process automation—three areas poised to shape the future of printing significantly.
Sustainability remains a pressing concern in the print industry. With 72% of print buyers prioritising eco-friendly products, understanding how to meet these demands without compromising profitability is vital. Notably, 70% of print service providers (PSPs) have indicated they can adhere to sustainability criteria without raising costs, demonstrating that eco-friendly solutions can align with business viability. Additionally, a significant subset of PSPs has successfully increased prices without deterring sales, suggesting a lucrative path for investments in sustainable practices.
The integration of AI into printing operations is another transformative trend. AI-driven technologies are optimising workflows by automating scheduling and enhancing colour management, which can lead to increased efficiency and reduced idle time. As AI continues to evolve, its applications in personalised printing are also expanding. By analysing customer data, businesses can create tailored materials at scale, making personalisation not just a value-add but a competitive necessity.
Process automation is essential for addressing the industry’s ongoing demand for faster turnarounds and the management of low-volume jobs. This shift allows businesses to streamline production processes, reducing bottlenecks while enhancing throughput and cutting down labour costs. The evolving landscape of automation aligns with the increasing expectation for rapid service delivery among customers.
The initial survey is slated to open in May, with responses collected through November. The results will be compiled into reports scheduled for release in late 2025, marking a pivotal moment for FESPA and its members. Since its inception in 2015, the Print Census has played a crucial role in equipping the print community with data-driven insights that foster innovation and resilience in an ever-changing market.
As the print industry navigates a period of significant transformation, FESPA's commitment to enhancing its Print Census underscores the importance of agile, informed decision-making for businesses aiming to thrive in this competitive landscape. With a palpable focus on sustainability, automation, and technological advancements, FESPA’s refreshed initiative may well set a new benchmark for industry research and collaboration.